fbpx
Phone (352-787-3747) Email In-Person Virtual Visit Campus Request Information
Apply

Associate in Science

Criminal Justice 

Empower Your Future: Discover our Criminal Justice Program

The Associate in Science in Criminal Justice provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in law enforcement and related fields. It prepares students to work as criminal justice practitioners, supervisors, and managers within law enforcement agencies and other criminal justice organizations.

The coursework covers topics such as criminal law, law enforcement procedures, and the overall criminal justice system. To become a law enforcement officer, students must complete a Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC) Basic Recruit Program, as required by Florida Statutes Chapter 943.

The Criminal Justice Specialist College Credit Certificate (24 credits) is stackable within the degree.

Request Info Apply Now!

Overview

The Associate in Science in Criminal Justice prepares students for careers in law enforcement and related fields, covering essential topics like criminal law and law enforcement practices. The program provides a strong foundation for roles in criminal justice organizations.

Program Highlights

  • Flexible Learning Options: Courses are offered in-person and online.
  • Lakehawk Journey: The 24-credit Criminal Justice Leadership College Credit Certificate is integrated into the A.S. program.
  • Expert Instruction: All criminal justice courses are taught by professionals with extensive real-world experience or those currently active in the field.
  • Articulated Credit Opportunities: Students who have completed the required FDLE programs may receive up to 30 articulated credit hours toward their degree.
  • Reverse Articulation with Lake Tech: Students not yet eligible for the FDLE academy benefit from reverse articulation with Lake Technical College, preventing duplicate coursework and saving time.
  • Hands-On Learning: Coursework includes practical training experiences with local law enforcement agencies, offering valuable real-world application.
  • In-Demand Careers: There is a strong and growing demand for skilled criminal justice professionals across Florida, especially in law enforcement and corrections.
  • Career Advancement: Earning the A.S. in Criminal Justice can lead to salary increases and advancement for current professionals in the field.
  • Local Partnerships: Collaborations with Mt. Dora High School, the Early College Criminal Justice Academy, and Lake Technical College support student pathways and workforce connections.

 

Important Note: A student must successfully complete a Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC) Basic Recruit Program to work as a law enforcement officer, pursuant to Chapter 943, Florida Statutes.

Program Length

The program consists of 60 credit hours and can be completed in two years when attending full-time.

Program Cost

Tuition costs for programs and courses at the associate’s degree level are $109.73 per credit hour. Additional costs will include textbooks, materials, and course fees.

Learn More

Scholarships

Students graduating from high school and enrolling at LSSC may qualify for other scholarships offered through the State of Florida. You will be notified of your eligibility after you apply to the College.

Learn More

Financial Aid

There are many options to finance your education. You may be eligible for Federal Grants, Work-Study, State Grants, Federal Loans, and Institutional Scholarships. For more information and how to apply, please visit the Financial Aid page.

Learn More

For a detailed breakdown of the curriculum and degree requirements, visit the Catalog page.

Industry Outlook

Job Outlook (Florida)

Statewide, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (FLDEO) predicts 7.2% job growth in Criminal Justice through 2023. This includes all 67 of Florida’s counties.

In Central Florida, FLDEO predicts a 1.75% growth rate in Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers through 2029. For this data, Central Florida includes Lake, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Sumter Counties.

Career Report

To learn more about this career, visit the My Next Move career site. My Next Move is an interactive tool for job seekers and students to learn more about their career options. My Next Move has tasks, skills, salary information, and more for over 900 different careers. My Next Move is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.

For additional assistance with choosing a career, make an appointment with LSSC’s Career Development Services office.

Career Outlook

  • Probation/Parole Officer
  • Police Officer
  • Corrections Officer
  • <Non-Sworn Analyst
  • Non-Sworn Evidence Technician

Program Outcome

Mission

The mission of the Criminal Justice program is to provide students with the skills and knowledge of criminal law and explores the theoretical foundations, knowledge, skills, and practices of criminal justice operations.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the A.S. Criminal Justice program requirements, graduates will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of laws, procedures, policies, and functions of the United States criminal justice system and other justice systems.
  • Discuss ethical problems common throughout the criminal justice system
  • Obtain required information and properly prepare written reports
  • Explain the police role in relation to sociological and psychological dynamics of the community

Gregory Bridgeman

BridgemG@lssc.edu | (352) 323-3636

Gregory Bridgeman joined LSSC in 2018. He began his law enforcement career in 1974 as a deputy sheriff in Texas. Over the years, he served 12 years in the U.S. Army and 8 more in the Army Reserve. With more than 20 years of experience teaching criminal justice at community colleges, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the classroom. He retired in 2017 after 21 years as a deputy sheriff. He holds a Master’s degree in Administration of Justice and Management.

The job prospects are strong with opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, security, and other criminal justice-related fields. Graduates can pursue roles such as law enforcement officers, probation officers, corrections officers, criminal investigators, and crime scene technicians.

Yes, the courses are transferable to bachelor’s programs at four-year institutions. However, transferability may vary depending on the specific institution. It is recommended that students meet with a faculty advisor to discuss transfer options and ensure their courses align with the requirements of their desired bachelor’s program.

Courses are offered online, but availability can vary by semester.

The time needed to complete the A.S. in Criminal Justice degree depends on the number of credits earned each semester. If a student enrolls full-time, the pathway can be completed in approximately two years.

Yes, LSSC offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Students should complete the FAFSA for consideration. Learn more.

LSSC provides academic advising, tutoring, and career services to help students succeed. Learn more.

Interested students should complete an application through the LSSC website and meet any necessary admission requirements. Apply.

Application Process

A student must have a high school diploma or GED to apply to Lake-Sumter State College.

01

Submit your Application

Submit your online application and $30 application fee

02

Transcripts

Submit high school/GED and prior college/university transcripts

03

Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA and other financial aid forms

Enrolling at LSSC is quick and easy. Get Started Now!

Apply Now 

OUR TEAM IS READY TO SUPPORT YOU!

In-person

Virtual

Phone

352-787-3747

Email

Why Choose LSSC

Over 8,600

Students

26+

Degrees & Certificates

25:1

Student To Faculty Ratio

30+

Clubs & Organizations

1st

Students First. Always.

Fastest

GROWING COLLEGE IN FLORIDA

Relevant Programs & Resources

Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership Criminal Justice Leadership

Associate in Arts Criminal Justice Pathway